gendered pathways into and experiences within crack cultures outside of the inner city

Abstract

This study examines the life histories of male and female crack addicts outside of the inner city context, focusing on gendered variation in experiences related to childhood background, pathways into crack cocaine use, income generation strategies, and violence. We offer insight into the nature of crack use and culture outside of the inner city and question the generalizability of previous studies to communities outside of the inner city. Furthermore, the question of women's emancipation and the subsequent impact this has had on their roles and experiences within crack cultures is addressed through comparison of male and female experiences within crack cultures. Lastly, the issue of how race, class, and gender interact to shape the experiences of crack addicts is tentatively explored.